Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join colleagues in welcoming the prompt decision to establish a full statutory inquiry into mother and baby homes. I concur with the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Charles Flanagan, that this is a time for showing great sensitivity, rather than sensationalism. The behaviour of some elements of the media in their reporting of the appalling tragedies that occurred was despicable. I hope the inquiry will present the full picture of how women and children were treated not many years ago. The inquiry will be painful for many individuals and organisations, agencies of the State, the church and, in particular, the families involved. Thankfully, we live in a more enlightened time and I hope what happened in the early days of the State will never happen again.

There are many people still suffering today as a result of what happened in the past. In order to give these people closure, the inquiry must be established promptly. It might allow people to achieve some peace and get on with the rest of their lives.

I very much welcome the announcement by the Minister for Education and Skills of 6,100 new places on Springboard courses for this year and next. Jobseekers have access to 171 different courses in 38 colleges, free of charge, in areas of study in which there is significant job growth. This is the fourth year of the Springboard scheme. Will the Leader invite the Minister or Minister of State to the House in the coming weeks to review what was achieved in the first three years and how many people have found gainful employment after participating in these courses?